Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot recently announced an initiative to launch the City’s long-awaited Lead Service Line Replacement Program. The City is offering two methods of City-assisted replacement: The Equity Lead Service Line Replacement Program for low-income residents and the Homeowner-Initiated Lead Service Line Replacement Program.

The Equity Lead Service Line Replacement Program will allow qualifying homeowners to have their lead service line replaced all the way from the water main into the home by contractors paid fully by the City. This program requires passage of an ordinance that will be introduced to the City Council for a vote in November. Pending passage, the program will begin accepting applications this fall.

The Homeowner-Initiated Lead Service Line Replacement Program is for homeowners that want to hire a contractor and remove the existing lead service line on their property. Under this program, the City will waive standard permit fees for the project, which could amount to a savings of over $3,000. The City will connect the new service line to the water main and install a free water meter upon completion of the replacement. This program requires passage of an ordinance that will be introduced to the City Council for a vote in November with an effective date of January 1, 2021.

Information on the Lead Service Line Replacement Program is available at: www.LeadSafeChicago.org.